Yamal: It's hard to maintain high performance at 39 like Messi; I'll play centrally in the future

According to Argentina's Olé newspaper, Yamal discussed Messi in an interview and responded to external speculation about a France vs. Argentina final.

Spain is considered a favorite for the 2026 World Cup, not only because of the team's overall strength but also due to the exceptional performances of young star Yamal, though he hasn't yet reached full fitness. In the opening match, a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, Yamal came on as a substitute for 20 minutes. Before Spain's second match, the 18-year-old Barcelona player spoke about Messi in an interview, praising him highly while also expressing frustration with premature conclusions drawn after the first round.

When asked about his World Cup outlook, Yamal said: "You reporters are too eager to finish your work. We've only played one match—Spain has 1 point, Portugal has 1 point, Argentina won 3-0, France won 3-1. And you already think the final will be France vs. Argentina? I don't understand."

Yamal continued: "You don't enjoy the game; you want to draw conclusions immediately. Now Spain is considered a very bad team. But anyone who truly understands football knows that's not the case."

He also emphasized: "You won't know who will win until July 19th, yet you want the answer today."

When asked if he imagined playing until 40 like Messi, who turns 39 on June 24th, the Barcelona forward said it would be very difficult for him to reach such a level, though he has always held Messi in the highest regard.

Yamal said: "It's impossible. Maybe I can continue playing, but reaching that level is extremely difficult, and you need strong motivation. For me, he's the best, and he continues to prove it. He's ahead of everyone, and he's almost 40."

When asked if he'd ever considered moving from the wing to a central position, Yamal acknowledged that with time, he would eventually make that transition: "I think three people used to mark Messi at first, but the only place where three people won't mark you simultaneously is the center, because there are many attacking players there. In time, I will eventually go there, because three people can easily mark me on the wing, but they can't mark me the same way in the center."

Yamal concluded: "I can get one-on-one opportunities in the center. If I cut inside from the center, I'll be more decisive than cutting in from the wing. Of course, for the team right now, I think I'm better on the wing. But one day, I'll be more decisive in the center. I will eventually move there."